ELTHAM.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 May 1919, Page 3

ELTHAM.

Eltham, May C. In connection with the formation of the Athletic Club, one of the members, Mr. H. H. Blake, informs mo that he hopes' to see the club organise a big sports meeting. His idea is that they should have a round-the-Mountain vaoc for cars, motor cycles, and bicycles, ali on the same day. The day previous to thr* race, he suggests, should be spent in taking the competitors over the route, which, he maintains, is an ideal one for the trial. Beside* a trial of speed they will also arrange a reliability race, consumption of benzine to be a consideration, a? well as the distance covered. Regarding prize?. lu> believed the public of Taranaki would subscribe sufficient to permit of substantial sums being given in each event, and he also believes that some of the motor firms would assist in this direction, as well as being ensaged in the racing. Asked about the keeping clear of the roadway, he anticipates that the difficulty will be overcome by having rofld committees set up to see that the coast, is clear throughout the journey. Getting back to the club, in the years gone by the membership was very large, and the sports of the best description. In those days the "bookmaker flourished, and, although he is now a thing of the past, -still there is 'plenty or* room for the club, and, with a do7.en or s» members exhibiting the 3ame enthusiasm as Mr. Blake, a successful sports club should result. New concrete offices are about to be built for the Egmont Box Company. The mixer was being set up to-day, so in a few days the foundations should be established, and later on the clerical staff housed in more pretentious premises than at present. A visitor here to-day was much impressed with our town. Its clean roads, substantial business premises, and pretty villas with well kept gardens tended to create a most favorable impression. Eltham is one of the towns th&t got in early and secured the major portion of the improvements carried out by the loan money when the rates were low and credit long. It was a good business move, but for the last few years the town has been slumbering. The incoming Mayor, Mr. G. W. Tayler, recognises this, so if he can set the wheels of progress revolving he will ,havp rendered the town a timely service. The C.E.M.S. Club intend forming a debating society, and during the winter evenings a session will be arranged, certain nights being set aside for debates.